River Season Starts

While April has started with more unsettled weather, temperatures have at least been generally higher, if only a little!

The Derbyshire Wye is in fabulous condition for the time of year, the water surprisingly clear and while trout still have their heads firmly down on the bottom, hatches of midge and the odd large dark olive (LDO) are coming off the river.

The Coln and Churn are also in excellent condition, though still slightly milky, typical for the time of year. Again fish are firmly nymphing, ignoring the midge and LDO hatches in preference for shrimp and caddis grubs.

On the Coln, the grayling have started spawning, only yesterday I watched a group of fish chasing around gravels. Observing fish at this time is very rewarding, not only is it a great sight, you find out just how many whoopers you've not seen during last season!

Lakes at Loynton and Watermark are fishing really well, good buzzer hatches are occurring at both venues during settled conditions. At Watermark you can see nymphing fish from first light to last light on a nice day. Most anglers are still prefering lures, however buzzers and PTN are catching just as well. We've had plenty of fish to 5lbs.

Tight Lines

Steve